Themonth’s long dispute between Navjot Singh Sidhu and Punjab CM Captain AmarinderSingh has finally concluded. Today, Sidhu took charge as the Punjab PCCpresident and shared the stage with Punjab CM Amarinder Singh.
Earlier,it was speculated that CM will not be attending Sidhu’s coronation ceremony.However, he did and also gave a speech, presenting a united face of the party.
Sidhuwas sworn in as the head of the Punjab party unit in front of Chief MinisterAmarinder Singh, former state party president Sunil Jakhar, and Congressnational secretary in charge of the state Harish Rawat.
Afterthe ceremony, CM said "When Sonia Gandhi told me they wanted to makeNavjot Sidhu the party head; I told the media the same day that its partyleadership's prerogative and whatever their decision is, I will acceptit."
CaptainAmarinder Singh went on to say that “It is our responsibility to ensure thewelfare of Punjab and our country. Hence, I believe we will fight together. Wemust shun Akali Dal and Aam Aadmi Party because I have no confidence in them.The Congress Party has been working for the country's welfare and independencefrom the very beginning.”
Healso disclosed his close relation with relation with the newly appointed stateparty head. He said that Sidhu was born in the same year he joined the army.“Sidhu and I have a connection. He was born in 1963, and the same year I wascommissioned and deployed to the India-China border.”
“Weshould work together for our people’s welfare and fight out our rivals”, Singhconcluded.
Meanwhile,Sidhi in his speech said, “Today, all Punjab workers have become pramukhs (president)of the Punjab Congress. In the sea of Congress, Navjot Singh Sidhu is just aworker. Workers are the party's soul. I would feel I have linked with thespirit of Punjab if I connect with the workers.”
Reportedly,Sidhu had penned a letter to Chief Minister Amarinder Singh, inviting him to theceremony and bless the new team. In the letter, Sidhu said that he has ‘nopersonal agenda.’
“Youand everyone are aware of my resolve and dedication to settle Punjab's issuesand to carry out the high command's pro-people 18-point agenda for the welfareof every Punjabi. As the eldest member of our Punjab Congress family, Irespectfully request that you come and bless the new team,” Sidhu said in hisletter.
Theletter was signed by 62 MLAs. After accepting the invitation Captain met Sidhuat Punjab Bhawan over a cup of tea.